Tuzbair Salt Marsh, Mangystau
The Tuzbair salt marsh in Mangystau is a photographer's dream come true! The expansive white salt flats stretch to the horizon, bordered by towering white cliffs. These scenes offer countless opportunities for stunning photography, especially when mirages create the illusion of glistening lakes in the distance. After rainfall, the area transforms into a vast watery mirror that beautifully reflects the sky above.
"Sor Tuzbair," with "sor" meaning salt marsh in Kazakh, is a vast area measuring 15 by 4 kilometers. The cliffs are composed of ancient Cretaceous deposits from the Tethys Ocean, soaring over 60 meters high. The wind, water, and passage of time have sculpted the rocks into fantastic shapes, including the notable "Arch."
The Arch at Tuzbair is a natural formation carved by erosion. Climbing through it is possible but challenging due to the steep and unstable terrain. Nearby, fascinating rock formations have also been shaped by natural forces over time.
Yet, Tuzbair isn't just about the landscapes. It's a prime spot for fossil hunting, with remnants of the Tethys Ocean's marine life, like shark teeth and sea urchin skeletons, waiting to be discovered under a fine layer of sediment.
Despite its barren appearance, Tuzbair's ecosystem supports camels, wild horses, and occasionally the elusive saiga antelope, which stay well out of reach. Turtles and scorpions also inhabit this area.
Late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the cold, dusty winds of winter. If it rains, you might witness the transformation of Tuzbair into a reflective wonderland. Travelers should be cautious; the marsh's consistency varies, and it's advised to walk with appropriate footwear or barefoot to prevent sinking into the soft mud. Driving should be done carefully, sticking close to solid ground and following in the tracks of local guides to avoid getting stuck.
Reaching Tuzbair requires a drive from Aktau, 230 kilometers along A-33, then southward for another 40 kilometers on a dirt track. Alternatively, you can visit Tuzbair as part of a broader Mangystau tour, leaving from the ethno village "Kogen" near Sherkala and Ayrakty, which may shorten the journey by 120 km. An overlook situated 20 kilometers past the highway turnoff provides a different but equally breathtaking view without descending to the flats.
It's an ideal spot to spend a day or camp overnight, provided you come prepared with water, sun protection, and a hat. A visit to Tuzbair promises a tapestry of vivid experiences and memories.